Tuesday, September 26, 2017

CARTA offers support for app to help riders navigate local bus routes

Palm pilot

CARTA riders can now use the Transit app to find their way around town

Just in time for fall, CARTA has announced a new tool to help riders navigate the local public transportation network. Partnering with mobile app Transit, local riders will now be able to receive real-time updates on when their bus will arrive, navigate their trip step by step, and learn about any delays or disruptions in service.

“This app is a key tool in the rider experience and is the first of several digital steps we’ll be taking this fall to make CARTA more appealing,” said CARTA Board of Directors Chairman Mike Seekings in an announcement from CARTA. “Better technology is helping us lay the foundation for long-term, successful public transportation in the Lowcountry.”

Available free for download in the Apple App Store and Google Play, the Transit app also maps the location of buses along their route and allows users to search arrival times for the nearest Uber and request a pickup.

For those who don’t own a smartphone or simply don’t want another app to deal with, CARTA riders can now call or text (843) 202-4410 and provide their stop number to receive the next two arrival times for each route servicing the stop.

In other CARTA news, the transportation authority will be launching a new website in the coming weeks, as well as a new online payment system connected to the fare boxes located onboard each bus.

Yesterday, CARTA Chairman Mike Seekings rolled out the new website and Transit integration: